National Apprenticeship Week 2026: Entries open for CII & PFS Apprenticeship Awards

The awards recognise outstanding talent, commitment, and innovation within the sector, showcasing the exceptional achievements of apprentices, and the vital role played by employers. Winners receive a cash prize, sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Insurers Charitable Trust, to reward their achievements and support continued development.

The CII & PFS Apprenticeship Awards 2026 categories are:

·       Insurance Practitioner Apprentice of the Year

·       Insurance Professional Apprentice of the Year

·       Senior Insurance Professional Apprentice of the Year

·       Financial Adviser Apprentice of the Year

·       Paraplanner Apprentice of the Year

·       Financial Services Administrator Apprentice of the Year

·       Large Apprenticeship Employer of the Year

·       Small Apprenticeship Employer of the Year

·       Social Equality Employer of the Year

The CII is working to support longstanding relationships with apprentices and employers, with mentorship opportunities, as well as a platform for partnerships, keeping winners, finalists, judges, and providers connected.

Callum Beaton, President of the CII, said: “We are immensely proud to deliver the CII and PFS Apprenticeship Awards, as an opportunity to recognise the dedication and achievements of apprentices, as well as the invaluable contribution of employers. Apprenticeships provide an excellent route into the profession, combining hands-on experience with expertise evidenced by professional qualifications. We look forward to celebrating the continued positive impact of apprentices and employers.”

Carla Brown, President of the PFS, said: “The Apprenticeship Awards celebrate outstanding achievement across the sector, highlighting the commitment and talent of apprentices, and the employers and training providers who help create meaningful opportunities for the next generation. We are excited to honour this year’s winners and finalists at this year’s ceremony.”

Elizabeth Dewick, winner of the 2026 Senior Insurance Apprentice of the Year, said: “It has been a good journey, a long journey, and I feel like I’ve learnt so much along the way, but coming here and winning has just made it all worth it. I have learned so much and it’s really helped gain that wider insurance background. At Ecclesiastical Insurance, we are quite specialist and niche, so it’s really helpful to gain that wider general insurance background and knowledge. Ecclesiastical have been excellent in supporting me and allowing me that time to develop and dedicate the effort needed to achieve this apprenticeship.”

A panel of experienced sector practitioners will review the applications to select finalists and winners. Applications are open to apprentices and employers across the UK until 1 June 2026.

More information, including how to enter, can be found here.